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Thatto Heath Meadows is the site of St Helens' fourth nature reserve and was officially opened by the Mayor of St Helens.

The Meadows, off Sutton Heath Road, is a small river valley that has remained undeveloped. It represents a remnant of countryside, providing a link with the area's agricultural heritage, where field patterns are still visible. This piece of land was chosen as a nature reserve because it is a good wildlife site which is easily accessible for local people.

Designated in 1986 and covering 4.5 hectares, the meadows contain unimproved grasslands and hedgerows, providing an important habitat for many different species of plants, birds and mammals. There is also a stream valley running through the site, again providing additional habitats.

An unusual remnant of countryside within an urbanised and industrial area, the stream valley retains much of its pre-industrial landform and traces of field patterns dating back to 1843. The site was originally part of Four Lane holdings from the 1970s.

A 10 year partnership between the Council and the St Helens Wildlife Advisory Group has resulted in the creation of four nature reserves across the Borough at Stanley Bank Meadow, Clinkham Wood, Siding Lane in Rainford and now at Thatto Heath.

Councillor Terry Hanley, Portfolio Member for Environmental Protection, said: "The opening of Thatto Heath Meadows shows the progress the Council is making in its commitment to nature conservation in St Helens. The programme is an important element of the Council's Policy for Nature and access to nature is a prime objective.